Challenges and opportunities for pharmacy Education supporting indian healthcare system

5th National Convention of APTI Punjab State Branch, February 2024

In a groundbreaking two-day event, the 5th Annual Convention of the Punjab State branch of the Association of Pharmaceutical Teachers of India (APTI) unfolded at Amar Shaheed Baba Ajit Singh Jujhar Singh Memorial College of Pharmacy in BELA (Ropar). The convention brought together over 1000 pharmacy professionals, faculty, research scholars, and students across India, creating an unparalleled platform for exchanging ideas and advancements in pharmaceutical education and research.

The convention commenced with the inauguration by Prof. Dulal Panda, Director of the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) Mohali. Prof. Panda set an ambitious tone by emphasizing the need for a research-oriented environment in colleges, expressing optimism about the future of the pharmaceutical field. Referring to the upcoming years as a golden era for the industry, he instilled a sense of purpose and dedication among attendees.

One of the event’s highlights was the formalization of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NIPER Mohali and APTI Punjab State branch. The collaboration aims to enhance pharmaceutical research by leveraging the strengths and expertise of both entities. Prof. Gulshan Bansal, the President of APTI Punjab State Branch, emphasized the strategic significance of partnering with an esteemed institution like NIPER Mohali. These foreseeing synergies will reshape the state’s pharmaceutical education and research landscape.

A pivotal aspect of the convention was a thought- provoking panel discussion chaired by Prof. Sanjay Jachak (NIPER Mohali) and Prof. R.K Goel (Punjabi University, Patiala). The discussion involved twelve pharmacy professionals from various esteemed government and private organizations. Addressing challenges in the pharmacy profession, the panel aimed to strengthen its role in the healthcare system, contributing to the ongoing evolution of the pharmaceutical sector in India.

In recognition of their exceptional contributions to pharmaceutical research and education, Prof. Anupam Sharma and Prof. Ashish Baldi were honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award and Excellence Award, respectively. The awards underscored the dedication and impact of these individuals in advancing the frontiers of pharmaceutical knowledge and education.

The program featured distinguished speakers, including Dr. Harish Chander (National Institute of Biologicals, Noida), Mr. Rajeev Nayyar (Fresenius Kabi Oncology Ltd., Baddi), and Mr. Navjeet Singh Bhatti (Director, Paraxel, Chandigarh). These experts shared groundbreaking insights into new findings in pharmaceutical research, contributing to the collective knowledge pool of the attendees.

The scientific sessions unfolded with approximately 160 oral and E-poster presentations covering various pharmaceutical research topics. The depth and breadth of these presentations reflected the multifaceted nature of contemporary pharmaceutical research, showcasing the latest advancements and innovations in the field.

In addition to the scientific sessions, the convention organized various competitions, including quizzes, debates, and model presentations. These competitions provided a platform for delegates to showcase their knowledge and skills, fostering a spirit of healthy competition and collaboration. Cultural events, presented by students from various pharmacy colleges, added a joyful dimension to the convention, creating an atmosphere of celebration and camaraderie.

Dr. Suresh Thakkar, the Coordinator, and Dr. Sandeep Kumar, the Organizing Secretary, expressed their gratitude to dignitaries, delegates, the college management, press and media members, and sponsors for their unwavering support in making the convention a resounding success. The collaborative efforts of all stakeholders contributed to the event’s success and reinforced the sense of community within the pharmaceutical education and research ecosystem.

The 5th APTICON Punjab State Convention emerged as a cornerstone of pharmaceutical education and research. As the industry continues to evolve, the convention provides a vital platform for exchanging
ideas, collaborations, and recognition of excellence. The diverse range of sessions, collaborations, and recognitions showcased the dynamic nature of the pharmaceutical sector in India. Moving forward, events like APTICON will play an instrumental role in shaping the future of pharmaceutical education and research, driving innovation and advancements in the field.

About Convention

Pharmacists play a crucial role in the healthcare system, and their skills can significantly impact its future. Imparting and acquiring knowledge is a consistent effort to build in the quality within the young pharmacists, to empower them.The skill upgrade may enable pharmacists to manufacture consistent quality products at affordable rates and to achieve international standards. Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacists have to play a significant role in the healthcare system of the country for a burgeoning population, for overall self-reliance in healthcare, and for economic development.

Skilled pharmacists can contribute to shaping the future of healthcare by spreading awareness to the general public about Preventive Care and Health Promotion Schemes, Pharmacogenomics, Public Health Initiatives, Personalized Medication Plans, Chronic Disease Management, and promoting sustainable healthcare practices. By embracing these roles and actively participating in the evolving landscape of healthcare, skilled pharmacists can contribute significantly to shaping a future healthcare system that is more patient-centered, efficient, and outcomes-driven. This goal can be achieved by imparting quality Pharmacy education. But the quality of pharmacy education is increasingly becoming a major concern as a result of several complex factors like lack of competent faculty, researchers and staff, lack of infrastructure, focus on knowledge oriented curriculum rather than competency based training, deficiency in the regulatory framework and its enforcement for quality education, equality and fairness. Pharmacy education is an underrated area, but it has immense potential.

This 5th National Convention of APTI Punjab State Branch will provide a common platform for all stakeholders of the Pharmacy Profession, i.e., Academicians, Regulators, Clinical Pharmacists, and Professionals from the Industry, to express their views and submit their inputs to encourage young professionals to understand their valuable role in shaping healthcare system of India.

About APTI Punjab State Branch

The APTI Punjab State Branch came into existence in December 2014 under the aegis of APTI, with a mandate to prosper pharmaceutical education in Punjab through spreading awareness about the current and prospective scenario in different fields of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Since its inception, the Association has successfully organized and supported One International Conference, four annual National Conventions, seven National Seminars, three webinars, and various FDPs in diverse fields. It has also facilitated and supported executive lecture series from representatives of Alberta College of Pharmacists Council (2018) and West China Hospital, Sichuan University, China (2023) across Punjab. The Association has the privilege of hosting the 69th Indian Pharmaceutical Congress, the mega event in Pharmaceutical Sciences in India, 2017 as a co-host.

The APTI (Punjab State Branch) is committed to improving the quality of teaching in Punjab by motivating teachers and appreciating their efforts to uplift the Pharmacy profession.

About College

Amar Shaheed Baba Ajit Singh Jujhar Singh Memorial College of Pharmacy, located in Bela, Ropar, was established in 1993 in memory of Sahibzadas Ajit Singh and Jhujar Singh. These individuals were the elder sons and true disciples of Guru Gobind Singh ji, who sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of religion, peace, and independence at a young age. The institute aims to commemorate its legacy by providing education in the field of pharmacy.

The college began with the D. Pharm. course and has steadily progressed over the last 28 years. In the year 2000, the institution expanded its offerings by introducing the B. Pharm. degree course, later elevating it to the postgraduate level with M. Pharm. programs in Pharmaceutics (2006), Pharmaceutical Chemistry (2007), and Pharmacology (2008). Additionally, a center for Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences was established in 2006, reflecting the institution’s commitment to higher learning and research.

In its pursuit of academic excellence, the college also offers B.Sc. (MLS) and M.Sc. (Pharm. Chemistry) courses in allied health sciences. This diverse range of programs demonstrates the institution’s dedication to providing comprehensive education in the pharmaceutical and health science domains. Over the years, the college has become a significant hub for learning, research, and development in the field of pharmacy.

Above all, it is important to recognize the exceptional achievement of this college as the sole institution in North India to have earned two times the B. Pharmacy accreditation from the National Board of Accreditation. This achievement reflects profoundly on the dedication to providing quality education and upholding the rigorous standards upheld by both our faculty and students.

Furthermore, the college has earned a permanent affiliation with IKG-Punjab Technical University, Punjab, and has been recognized under the UGC act 2(F). Recently, achieving Autonomous Status from the UGC for a decade is a testament to our dedication to academic autonomy and self-governance.

In the dynamic landscape of higher education, our institution has consistently risen in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF). From the 76th rank in 2018 to the current 57th rank, each year reflects our continuous commitment to improvement and growth.

Our infrastructure is a testament to our dedication to providing a conducive learning environment. With 27 well-established labs, 5 seminar rooms, and 10 classrooms, we ensure our students have the resources they need to excel. The well-stocked library, plant herbal garden, and animal house further enrich the learning experience and skill development.

Behind these achievements lies a team of committed individuals. Our faculty, consisting of thirty six members, plays a significant role in enriching our intellectual assets. With the support of forty well trained staff members, the college has established a comprehensive support network that facilitates the seamless operation of our academic pursuits. Most recently, seven students successfully submitted their Ph.D. at various universities in India.

This academic year, the college has received more than Rs. 1 crore through Indian and Punjab Govt. grants. Research grants from DST, AICTE, IKGPTU, and from AICTE.

In the research, the college has published around 78 research papers in reputed national and international journals till this academic year and earned an impact factor of more than 150. This year we filed 07 patents and received 05 Patents and 100+ copy rights.